Lemon Cream Cheese Pie

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups (170 g) graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 7 tablespoons (100 g) salted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (43 g) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (118 ml) fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3/4 cup (177 ml) water
• 4 tablespoons (56 g) salted butter
• 1 cup (236 ml) heavy cream, (very cold)
• 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar, divided
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 batch homemade whipped cream, (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.

3. 3

   Drizzle in melted butter and toss with a fork until crumbs are moistened.

4. 4

   Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9 ½” pie plate.

5. 5

   Place the pie plate in the center rack of the oven and bake for 10-13 minutes until the edges are starting to brown.

6. 6

   Allow the crust to cool completely while preparing the topping and filling.